Black dresses gathered across iconic city locations in the heart of Melbourne last Tuesday to mark the start of The Spirit of the Black Dress. Returning for its third year, the event combines a group of independent graduates from different backgrounds with the opportunity to create a unique collection of garments based around the concept of the popular black dress.
The Spirit of the Black Dress continues to demonstrate its passion for raising the profile of emerging fashion while combining an appreciation for environmentally friendly and sustainable Australian designs. Co-director of the event Jane Hayes said the level of competition for the Spirit of the Black Dress was higher this year. “Designs were more adventurous and stronger. They really reached that next level.”
The Spirit of the Black Dress provides the selected designers with a great boost to their career and it often presents future opportunities within the industry. Starting with a wide range of media coverage and local events to gain exposure, the event solely focuses on each designer. “There is no other event that gives emerging designers the ability to be the centre of attention, have the opportunity to meet leaders of the fashion industry and to develop a network,” said Ms Hayes.
Ms Hayes noted that entrants were required to adhere to sustainable practices in creating their garment to qualify for the competition as well as show a creative approach to the interpretation of the black dress. “Designers needed to pay attention to texture, form and detail to create interest because you don’t have colour to bend the eye,” she said.
Finalist Dan Jones created a scooped-back mini dress for his entry that incorporated a classic cut complemented with embroidery and an array of hand-stitched glass beads. The attention to detail and finesse are apparent in his design, demonstrating his flair for detail and neat finishes. He said his design explores the idea of love and sensuality. “A black dress to me is very simple, classic and sophisticated.”
Leanne Dempsey designed a sleeveless, cut-out number that was created from recycling and reconstructing suit jackets. “I enjoy the notion of recreating and giving something new life,” she said. Up close, the definition of the waist is finished with carefully placed buttons that emphasise the clean lines and sharp structure of the dress. The designer, originally from West Midlands in the UK, said it was important for her to show an awareness of panelling in her dress construction. “It has to have lines, edges and darts.”
Designer Katherine Hamer entered a dress that can transform by removing or attaching the skirt, shoulder and collar pieces to create an entirely new look. The idea behind this was to create a dress that doesn’t conform to a particular trend but one that will last for years. “The adaptability [of the dress] was the key.” Ms Hamer said her style is all about taking classic pieces and adding an edge. “My style is very hour-glass. The emphasis on the waist is very feminine and attractive.”
The event typically runs as a photographic exhibition for the duration of the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival. But this year has seen The Spirit of the Black Dress reach new heights with an intimate showing where media could meet the designers personally, as well as a gala evening held at The Trust that showcased the 2011 designs through a runway show and fashion film. “The project is getting more respect in the fashion industry,” said Ms Hayes.
The event has also attracted more sponsors this year with Audi coming on as a partner, in addition to FashionTrend magazine, Fashion TV and Mimco among a host of other brands. “This year has seen the most involvement of sponsors,” said Ms Hayes.
The ten finalists chosen for the 2011 event are:
Dan Jones
Leanne Dempsey
Alyana Eau & Priscilla Lim
Georgia McCorkill
Samantha Lilian Koval
Cristina Tridente
Alex Trimmer
Katherine Hamer
Clea Garrick & Nathan Price
Melina Hollway
Further details: http://thespiritoftheblackdress.com.au
Photography: Vikk Shayen – www.vikkshayen.com
